Tips for Using Your Tractor in the Summer
With summer on the horizon, you must be probably heading out in the fields working with your tractor every day. However, the ever-rising temperatures pose some unique challenges. You need to stay safe out there, to keep both your machines and your body in peak working condition.
Fortunately, there are some proactive steps that you can take to minimize the effects of summer on your equipment. We’ve gathered up the following strategies to keep your tractor running well in the hot weather. If you want more advice or you want to explore tractors for sale, head over to Central Arkansas Mahindra. You’ll find us in Little Rock, AR, where we proudly serve all those in Sherwood and Conway.
Tend to the Tires
The higher temperatures can cause the air in your tractor tires to expand. When tires aren’t inflated to the right pressure, they can face damage and a shortened lifespan. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the tire levels, then compare against the manufacturer’s recommendation. You can find this number on the tire wall, manufacturer’s website, or the owner’s manual.
Coolant
Similar to how you like to keep cool, using your tractor in the summer means that you need to ensure it stays cool as well. Inspect the coolant levels and the system’s hoses for damage. This is crucial as your machine will be prone to overheat if the coolant isn’t properly circulating through the engine. If you find any damage, replace the broken parts before you start working on your farm.
Engine Oil and Filter
A common cause of overheating during the summer is low or old engine oil, which can cause damage to a tractor beyond just heat. Without lubrication, the tractor’s moving parts cause additional friction, which translates into more heat or even worn-out parts. Keep to your maintenance routine to ensure the engine oil is in proper condition and at the right levels. Simply check it as you would your car, replacing the oil and filters as necessary.
Beat the Summer Heat
Warmer temperatures in the summer are essential for a good harvest, but there comes a point when the heat can become unbearable. Because of this, you’ll want to plan your day to take advantage of the cool morning and late evening to avoid unnecessary exposure to extreme heat. Check the weather forecast to decide when it’s safe to work with your tractor.
We hope that you found this guide useful. If you want more advice or need to get your tractor serviced, visit the experts at Central Arkansas Mahindra. We can answer questions, give advice, and fix up your tractor. Whatever you need, you can find it with us. We are located in Little Rock, AR, and we welcome all those coming from Hot Springs.